The 24-year-old former Wrexham stopper was a key player in Town’s Championship promotion-winning side last campaign, saving penalties in both the semi-final play-off at Sheffield Wednesday and the Wembley final against Reading .

After the highs of his time at the John Smith’s Stadium, Ward has been reduced to just one appearance for Liverpool so far this season - the 2-0 Carabao Cup away defeat at Leicester City back in September.

It’s something the stopper admits is frustrating, but he is vowing to remain positive as he tries to dislodge Simon Mignolet and Loris Karius as first-choice.

“You want to play as a footballer but these things happen and it’s part of the business you are in - especially as a goalkeeper,” admitted Ward.

“The situation is what it is - I obviously miss playing but it’s just a case of sink or swim.

“You either accept it and let things start to dwindle, or you back yourself, train as hard as you can and try to improve yourself to ultimately be in the team at the end of the week.